In "Come Back Out" by Michael McGlade, Cathal spends a summer assisting his aging father, Da, in laborious farm work in rural Ireland, forming a rich tapestry of familial legacy and folklore. As they excavate a drainage trench, their dialogue weaves through Irish myths and personal histories, reflecting on life's transitions. Amidst the physical labor, Cathal uncovers artifacts of his past, each a poignant reminder of the layers that form one’s identity. Their work not only reshapes the land but also their relationship, culminating in a profound and unexpected conclusion. |
|
In "There Were Balloons" by Cathy S. Ulrich, a child's experience at an old woman's funeral is poignantly depicted through his innocent perspective. Balloons, usually symbols of joy, ascend like colorful punctuation marks in the sky, released by a grandly fat man. The child, uncomfortable in his formal attire, recalls the old womanFs dry kisses and butterscotch candies, and moments like watching a kitten or listening to his mother play the piano at her house. As the balloons disappear, one yellow balloon remains caught in a tree, mirroring the childFs confusion about the event, which he mistook for a party. |
In "Vox", De Wilde explores a steadfast refusal to conform, with a protagonist wielding negation as affirmation. Amidst ancient calls of war and the incessant demands of society, they choose a path of resistance, finding strength in the relentless seas that surround and define them. Each plea and confrontation sharpens their resolve, as they navigate through exile, identity, and the echoes of their defiance. |
In "French Knitting" by Elizabeth Hopkinson, a witch meticulously knits Rapunzel's hair each night, creating a giant golden cobweb that descends into a dark pit. For seven years, Rapunzel's hair has been woven into the earth, supposedly connecting her to the core of creation. Confined and contemplative, Rapunzel doubts the witch's intentions, believing instead that creation flows through her. As the witch knits, an unexpected figure rises from the pit, challenging the witch’s control and hinting at a deeper, transformative power within Rapunzel herself. This tale reimagines the Rapunzel legend with a mystical and introspective twist. |